Combining CBD with Mushrooms: What You Need to Know

Supplement manufacturers increasingly combine CBD with other beneficial natural ingredients like vitamins, minerals, and botanicals. One particularly trendy blend is CBD and mushrooms. Medicinal mushrooms have many potential health benefits, many of which complement CBD.

That’s why some brands now offer mushroom-infused CBD oils, gummies, and other products. In this guide, we’ll explain the benefits of mushrooms, why they pair well with CBD, and give tips to help you make the most of this powerful combination.

What are Medicinal Mushrooms?

When we think of mushrooms, the first thing that comes to mind is the edible kind. But there are also medicinal mushrooms that have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years, particularly in Asia. They’ve grown popular in recent years as dietary supplements.

These mushrooms have a long list of potential health benefits, particularly for the immune system. Many are considered adaptogens, which are natural substances that help the body deal with various forms of stress, while a select few may be classified as nootropics, which are compounds that enhance cognitive function. 

Key medicinal mushrooms include: (1)

• Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): Often referred to as the “Mushroom of Immortality,” reishi is an adaptogen that helps the body resist different stressors. It’s also known for its potential to boost the immune system and promote relaxation.
• Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): This nootropic mushroom may support brain health and stimulate nerve growth.
• Chaga (Inonotus obliquus): Rich in antioxidants, chaga is believed to support immune health and combat inflammation.
• Cordyceps: Traditionally used to enhance athletic performance, cordyceps is believed to increase energy and stamina.
• Shiitake (Lentinula edodes): Beyond its culinary uses, shiitake is believed to support cardiovascular health and boost the immune system.
• Maitake (Grifola frondosa): Maitake is known for its potential to regulate blood sugar levels and enhance the immune system.
• Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor): Recognized for its unique fan-like appearance, turkey tail is believed to support gut health and boost the immune system. It’s been used in Japan and China for decades to help during cancer treatment. 

In summary, medicinal mushrooms offer a plethora of health benefits ranging from boosting the immune system to enhancing cognitive function. Their rich history in traditional medicine and increasing popularity in modern dietary supplements attest to their therapeutic potential.

What About Psychedelic Mushrooms?

You may have also heard of psychedelic or “magic” mushrooms. These mushroom family members contain compounds like psilocybin, which can alter your perception of reality. Some people consume such mushrooms recreationally, inducing hallucinations, introspection, a sense of connectedness, and other experiences. 

You won’t find CBD products containing psychedelic mushrooms because they’re illegal in most places. But one exception is Amanita muscaria, commonly known as the fly agaric. It’s been used as an intoxicant by the indigenous people of Siberia for centuries (2).

Amanita’s psychoactive components can cause euphoria, enhanced sensory perception, sedation, and hallucinations (3). This mushroom’s recreational and therapeutic use is growing, particularly among men looking to relieve stress, insomnia, and depression (4).

Health Benefits of CBD and Mushrooms

CBD and medicinal mushrooms can provide a variety of complementary, evidence-based benefits.

Shared Benefits of CBD & Mushrooms	Ideal Mushrooms
Anti-inflammatory/Antioxidant	Most mushrooms
Improved immunity	Most mushrooms
Neuroprotection	Lion’s mane, turkey tail
Cognitive function	Reishi, lion’s mane
Improved sleep	Reishi
Anticancer effects	Reishi, turkey tail

Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant Effects

One of the most celebrated benefits of CBD is its anti-inflammatory properties. They’re backed by numerous studies, suggesting potential benefits for various inflammatory conditions, including arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease (5). As it happens, medicinal mushrooms also have a wide range of anti-inflammatory effects (1). 

Both CBD and mushrooms also have antioxidant properties, which means they can help protect the body from harmful substances called free radicals. 

Improved Immunity

Mushrooms are best known for their immune-boosting properties. That’s largely thanks to being rich in beta-glucans, which stimulate various parts of the immune system, including macrophages and natural killer cells (6). 

Although CBD has more immunosuppressive rather than stimulatory effects, it can help normalize immune system function in combination with mushrooms. CBD is particularly effective for cases where the immune system is overactive, such as autoimmune conditions (7). 

Neuroprotection

Neuroprotective compounds defend neurons against damage. CBD has shown promise in protecting against both neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease and acute neurological damage caused by traumatic brain injury and stroke (8, 9, 10). 

Some mushrooms have also shown neuroprotective properties. For example, Lion’s mane is known to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) (1). In simple terms, NGF is like a “vitamin” for neurons which helps them stay strong and healthy. 

Mental Health

Another way CBD can synergize with mushrooms is its positive effects on mental health, including stress, depression, and anxiety. 

CBD’s anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects are well-established. In a 2019 study of 57 healthy men, CBD reduced anxiety caused by public speaking (11). In another 2019 study, CBD oil lowered anxiety in teenagers with social anxiety disorder (12). 

There’s also growing evidence that CBD has antidepressant effects (13). For example, a 2022 study of 31 people with treatment-resistant anxiety found that CBD improved symptoms of anxiety and depression (14). Lastly, a 2021 study of healthcare workers during COVID found that CBD helped with symptoms of burnout and emotional exhaustion (15). 

Certain mushrooms can also support psychological well-being. For example, reishi has shown some positive effects on mood and happiness (16). Meanwhile, Lion’s mane has been shown to improve symptoms of depression and anxiety in clinical studies (17,18). 

Improved Sleep

CBD and mushrooms may also help with sleep issues. For example, a 2023 randomized controlled trial (RCT, the gold standard of clinical research) found that CBD was as effective at improving sleep quality as melatonin (19). Similarly, several human studies have shown reishi mushroom to help with insomnia (20).

Anticancer Effects

Another research area where CBD and mushrooms interact is cancer. Mushrooms contain compounds with an impressive range of anticancer effects: (1)

• Antitumor activity: slowing the growth of cancer tumors and killing tumor cells
• Immunomodulation: Supporting cancer-fighting immune cells
• Reducing side effects of chemotherapy: a growing number of studies suggest that some medicinal mushrooms can improve quality of life and reduce side effects caused by chemotherapy

In fact, medicinal mushrooms such as reishi and turkey tail have been safely used in addition to standard cancer treatment in China and Japan for over 30 years (21). 

Preclinical research suggests that CBD also possesses anticancer properties. Studies show that CBD can promote cancer cell death, inhibit tumor migration, prevent tumors from growing new blood vessels, and help with the side effects of cancer and cancer treatment, such as pain and vomiting (22, 23). 

In summary, CBD and medicinal mushrooms offer many complementary beneficial effects. That’s why taking mushroom-infused CBD products is a great way to maximize their potential health benefits.

CBD Mushroom Products

Mushroom-infused CBD products primarily come in four forms: oils, gummies, capsules, and drinks. It’s essential to consider the differences between these consumption methods to choose the best product for your needs. 

Another important consideration is the formula:

1. The type of CBD used: If you want the greatest benefits, you should opt for full-spectrum CBD products. They contain not only CBD but many other beneficial hemp cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that work synergistically (24). If you need to avoid THC, you can go with broad-spectrum CBD products.
2. The kinds of mushrooms used: If you’re looking for immunity or general health benefits, you should look for formulas containing multiple mushrooms. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for specific benefits, such as nootropic effects, you should look for formulas curated for that specific effect. 

Mushroom CBD Oils

The overall best option is to use CBD oil infused with mushroom extracts. That’s because CBD oils are absorbed sublingually, greatly improving the absorption of CBD and other cannabinoids. Another advantage of tinctures is that they kick in quickly (15-40 minutes) and make it easy to adjust the dosage. 

Mushroom CBD Gummies

CBD gummies with mushrooms stand out for being convenient and discreet. It’s undoubtedly the most pleasant and easy way to get your daily dose of these beneficial compounds. Their effects also tend to last a bit longer than oils. 

But there is one downside to be aware of: gummies and other oral products like capsules have to go through the digestive system and liver before reaching the bloodstream, greatly reducing their absorption (25). They also take longer to start working than oils (about 30-120 minutes). 

Mushroom CBD Capsules

Similar to gummies, CBD mushroom capsules are straightforward to use. Many people prefer capsules because they can easily add them to their existing supplement routine. But they have the same absorption-related downside as gummies. 

Mushroom CBD Coffee and Tea

Another lesser-known option is mushroom CBD coffee and tea. Although it’s offered only by a handful of brands, this combination allows coffee and tea lovers to simultaneously enjoy the health benefits of both CBD and mushrooms.

But it does have the same drawback as capsules and gummies: since the CBD has to be digested first, it’s not as effectively absorbed as when you use a CBD oil tincture.

What’s the Right Dosage?

The right dosage of both CBD and mushrooms depends on your genetics, individual needs, product type, and other factors. You should start with the recommended dose, monitor the effects, and adjust accordingly. Consulting with a healthcare provider can also provide personalized advice.

Is It Safe to Combine CBD With Mushrooms?

Both CBD (cannabidiol) and medicinal mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for centuries and are generally considered safe. However, they can have side effects like any supplement, especially at higher dosages.

CBD can have mild side effects, including fatigue, diarrhea, dizziness, and dry mouth (26). Meanwhile, mushrooms can cause gastrointestinal symptoms or skin reactions (27). 

Another consideration is possible drug interactions. That’s why it’s especially important to talk to your doctor before taking CBD mushroom products when you’re already taking other medications.

But on the whole, clinical research has shown that both CBD and mushrooms are fairly safe, natural compounds.

CBD With Mushrooms: A Synergistic Combination

Mushrooms make a great pairing for CBD. This time-tested combination can help support your overall well-being and help with specific issues such as brain health, inflammation, and immunity. 

You can choose from a growing variety of mushroom-infused CBD gummies, oils, capsules, coffee, tea, and other products. Be sure to look for a formula that fits your needs. We also recommend sticking to reputable, trustworthy CBD brands that provide third-party test results of their products.